TWO stages, dozens of top acts, plenty of entertainment and bright sunshine.

Arts in the Park got under way on Saturday with thousands of spectators flocking from across East Lancashire to Witton Park, Blackburn, for acts including the Cheeky Girls, The Undertones and The Proclaimers.

The event had stalls, games and entertainment including a fairground.

And vendors were selling food from around the world including everything from curries to burgers, as families settled in for the event with pack-ups and cool boxes full of beer.

Parking for thousands was available across the river from the park, and police officers were stationed around the site, but after the event reported no serious incidents had taken place.

Councillor Dave Smith, portfolio holder for culture, leisure and sport for Blackburn with Darwen Council, claimed the event was the best yet.

He said: "With the nice weather there were thousands and thousands of people there. On Saturday the last two acts, The Undertones and The Proclaimers were really good.

"It's probably been better than previous years, I have received comments that the parking situation has been much better. We hope it will be even bigger and better next year!"

Many families had just come to soak up the sunshine, and even a late arrival by The Cheeky Girls on Saturday, who turned up more than an hour late, couldn't dampen their spirits.

On the second, 'alternative' stage, lesser-known acts were giving the proceedings a rock tinge, with guitar led music from the likes of Hyndburn-based band Maupa taking to the stage on Saturday afternoon, and Blackburn's The Burn on Sunday.

Each day was ended with a spectacular performance of Dracula.

Michael and Dorothy Schofield, from Beardwood, brought their granddaughters Ellen, seven, and Amy, five, to the event on Saturday.

Michael said: "I really do think it's something the council should be congratulated on."

David Livesey, 34, of Accrington, said: "I have enjoyed the day, dance wise the best music for me was N-Trance, and then rock wise it was The Undertones."

Paul Brazier was watching The Undertones with three-year-old son Ben and two-month-old Madeleyn. He said: "I've been here most of the day and it's better than last year."

On Sunday the event drew to a close with classical music from the Blackburn People's Choir and the Northern Jazz Orchestra.

The last act on the bill was the renowned Manchester Camerata, who performed songs including some well-known film theme tunes from ET, Harry Potter and Indiana ones.

The night came to a close with a firework display.

Janet Gateley, who attended with her step-daughter Kirsty Swarbrick, and Kirsty's children Jade and Faye, said: "I have been coming for the last three years, and it's always a good day out for the family. It's always really good to see the orchestra and fireworks."